New York, New York: 24 years after 9/11, former al-Qaeda chief Ahmad al-Sharaa to address UNGA as Syrian president

Syrian President Ahmad Hussein al-Sharaa, formerly a militant leader, arrived in New York for the UN General Assembly, marking Syria's return after six decades. His past, including ties to al-Qaeda, raises concerns despite his removal from the US terrorist list. The US engagement reflects strategic interests to counter Russian influence, amidst domestic challenges like sectarian tensions and governance.